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How do I Treat Muscle Inflammation?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Muscle inflammation occurs when various muscles of the body become irritated and swollen, often leading to varying degrees of pain. Inflammatory medical conditions such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, or arthritis are common causes of chronic inflammation of the muscles. Muscle injuries or strains may also lead to inflammation in some cases. Treatment options include lifestyle modification as well as the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications.

The first step in treating muscle inflammation is to schedule an appointment with a doctor. The doctor may order a variety of tests in order to determine whether the inflammation is due to a chronic disease or other factors. If a chronic disease is present, treatment for the inflamed muscles may be combined with other treatment methods for the disease itself.

Ibuprofen may be helpful in treating muscle inflammation.
Ibuprofen may be helpful in treating muscle inflammation.

Medications are often needed to treat the pain associated with muscle inflammation. Over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen may help to reduce some of the inflammation while alleviating the pain so that the patient can function at a more normal level. If these medications do not provide sufficient pain relief, the doctor may prescribe stronger medications. Some patients have reported symptom relief when taking dietary supplements such as fish oil capsules.

Rest may help treat muscle inflammation.
Rest may help treat muscle inflammation.

Heat therapy can be a very beneficial way to treat muscle inflammation. Many patients respond more positively to this type of treatment than with the use of medications. Heated pads and gels can be purchased at most drug stores without a prescription. Electric heating pads may be used as well, although care should be taken to avoid burning the skin. Hot baths or showers may also provide pain relief and help to increase blood flow to the affected areas.

Cranberry pills can help with inflammation.
Cranberry pills can help with inflammation.

Dietary changes and getting plenty of rest may help to alleviate chronic muscle inflammation. Patients who are able to get at least eight hours of sleep per night often report lowered pain levels during the day. Some foods may trigger inflammation and may need to be avoided. These foods may include sugar, wheat, and flour. In some cases, juices that have undergone the pasteurization process or packaged meats, especially deli meats, may lead to inflammation in some people.

An ice pack, which can help with muscle pain and inflammation.
An ice pack, which can help with muscle pain and inflammation.

If the patient attempts to treat the pain associated with muscle inflammation at home without success, further medical evaluation may be necessary. In some cases, additional medications such as muscle relaxants or steroid medications may be needed to reduce the inflammation and provide pain relief. Any questions or concerns about this type of inflammation should be discussed with a doctor.

Discussion Comments

anon924785

You shouldn't put heat pads on inflamed muscles; it just makes them more inflamed. Use cold pads/packs. Inflammation is heat, so putting heat on heat makes it worse.

candyquilt

@MikeMason-- Green tea has anti-inflammatory qualities. So does ginger, turmeric and licorice. Consume these regularly and you will see a difference. Ginger capsules have helped me with my tendinitis.

donasmrs

Heat pads are excellent for inflammation. I have arthritis in my feet and the muscle and joint pain gets really bad at times. It seems to be worse in the winter when it's cold and when humidity is high.

I've tried lots of different things, but the best remedy and the safest one in my opinion is heat pads. I literally use heat pads all day, every day during the winter months. When my feet are warm, I have less pain, I guess heat reduces inflammation.

I use one of those plastic heat pads that you put hot water in. It lasts for about five hours and then I boil more water.

stoneMason

What can I do for thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland) that doesn't involve drugs?

I am being treated for my thyroid problem, I take synthetic thyroid hormone medication. But my thyroid is still inflamed, I can feel it, my throat always feels swollen. I don't want to take more drugs though and this inflammation is not so severe, it's mild but persistent.

I want to know if there are any homeopathic remedies, like herbs and spices, that can help reduce the inflammation.

anon155279

Can acupuncture decrease muscle inflammation?

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    • Ibuprofen may be helpful in treating muscle inflammation.
      By: Bob Rannells
      Ibuprofen may be helpful in treating muscle inflammation.
    • Rest may help treat muscle inflammation.
      By: bonninturina
      Rest may help treat muscle inflammation.
    • Cranberry pills can help with inflammation.
      Cranberry pills can help with inflammation.
    • An ice pack, which can help with muscle pain and inflammation.
      By: Marc Dietrich
      An ice pack, which can help with muscle pain and inflammation.
    • Electric heated pads can help soothe muscle inflammation.
      By: nito
      Electric heated pads can help soothe muscle inflammation.
    • Soaking in a warm bath can help relieve pain caused by muscle inflammation.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Soaking in a warm bath can help relieve pain caused by muscle inflammation.
    • Massage may help alleviate pain and inflammation caused by soft tissue injuries.
      By: Micky75
      Massage may help alleviate pain and inflammation caused by soft tissue injuries.